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Rental Market

Concerns Raised Over Gove S21 Comments

Concerns Raised Over Gove S21 Comments

Concerns Raised Over Gove S21 Comments

LegalforLandlords' Managing Director, Sim Sekhon, has expressed discontent with remarks from Housing Secretary Michael Gove during a recent interview with the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg.

Gove, in the interview, committed to outlawing no-fault evictions by the upcoming election. However, the government's recent announcement delaying the implementation of the proposed ban on Section 21 evictions until the resolution of case backlogs and court delays has raised concerns.

Sekhon highlights the surge in landlords resorting to the existing provisions of Section 21 to regain possession of their properties. He dispels the notion that this increase is primarily punitive, attributing it to a small percentage of cases.

Sekhon underscores the significant losses landlords incur due to prolonged possession hearings, emphasizing the lack of respect for landlords and their challenges within the current system.

He contends that the housing market should be recognized as a market where both tenants and landlords play vital roles. The recent call by the Law Society for housing legal aid for tenants facing eviction is contrasted with the absence of a corresponding demand for support for landlords facing non-paying tenants.

Sekhon remarks on the struggles of renters in finding affordable accommodation amid housing shortages and interest rate rises. He expresses scepticism about the efficacy of the Renters' (Reform) Bill, suggesting it may make it more challenging for renters to secure tenancies as landlords become more discerning.

In a call for fairness, Sekhon argues for government support and incentives for landlords, asserting that a balanced approach is key to resolving existing issues.

Amidst the complexities of policy and promises, Sekhon advocates for a pragmatic and inclusive housing strategy. He concludes, "We don't need confusing timescales and politically motivated promises from our Housing Secretary. We need a realistic, grown-up conversation and a strategy for housing that all stakeholders can support."